Defense Witness Robert Costello Testifies in Trump Tax Fraud Trial

Former Adviser to Michael Cohen Takes the Stand

Key Points

• Robert Costello, an attorney who previously advised Michael Cohen, testifies as a defense witness in the tax fraud trial of former President Donald Trump.
• Costello is expected to provide a character reference for Cohen, who is a key witness for the prosecution.
• Costello and his law firm have also sued Rudy Giuliani, another Trump associate, for an unpaid legal bill.

Former President Donald Trump's defense team called its first major witness to the stand on Tuesday, Robert Costello, a lawyer who once advised Cohen. Costello is expected to provide a character reference for Cohen, who is a key witness for the prosecution.

Costello has a long history with both Cohen and Trump. He served as a legal adviser to Cohen for several years, and he also represented Trump during the Mueller investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election.

In his testimony, Costello is expected to downplay Cohen's credibility as a witness. Costello has previously said that Cohen is a "pathological liar" who is "not credible."

The prosecution is likely to challenge Costello's assessment of Cohen's credibility. Cohen has already pleaded guilty to lying to Congress about his contacts with Russia during the 2016 election.

Costello's testimony is likely to be closely watched by both the prosecution and the defense. If Costello is able to discredit Cohen, it could help Trump's chances of acquittal. However, if Costello's testimony is not convincing, it could damage Trump's case.